Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Why Tuna Melt Patties Are a Game-Changer

Imagine all the comfort of a warm, melty tuna melt—but without the bread. That’s exactly what these Tuna Melt Patties deliver: crispy, golden-browned on the outside with cheesy, savory goodness inside. It’s your favorite sandwich reinvented as a protein-packed patty—no toast required.

These patties are perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners

• Make-ahead meal prep

• School or work lunches

• Low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets (with a few simple swaps)

They come together fast using pantry staples like canned tuna, eggs, shredded cheese, and a few flavorful mix-ins. Whether you bake, pan-fry, or toss them in the air fryer, they’re reliably delicious—and totally customizable.

As someone who grew up eating tuna salad on toast, these patties were a total revelation. They’ve quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen because they’re easy to adapt (think spicy versions, veggie-packed options, or dairy-free swaps) and nearly impossible to mess up. Even beginners will nail this one.

Ready to level up your tuna game? These Tuna Melt Patties check all the boxes: fast, filling, budget-friendly, and absolutely crave-worthy.

What Are Tuna Melt Patties, Exactly?

Think of Tuna Melt Patties as the delicious love child of a tuna melt sandwich, a croquette, and a savory tuna cake. They take the best parts of each: the creamy tuna salad filling, the melted cheese core, and the satisfying crispy exterior.

Traditional tuna melts usually involve piling tuna salad and cheese onto bread and grilling it. These patties ditch the bread and instead form the tuna mixture into rounds that can be cooked in a skillet, oven, or air fryer—making them gluten-free friendly by default.

You’ll typically find a base of canned tuna, shredded cheese, eggs (for binding), and breadcrumbs or almond flour for structure. Aromatics and seasonings like garlic powder, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs give them flavor that’s anything but bland.

Whether you’re eating low-carb or just want a new way to enjoy a classic, tuna melt patties are satisfying, adaptable, and seriously addicting.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total weeknight win: fast, filling, and full of flavor. Here’s why you’ll make it on repeat:

• Quick to make: From pantry to plate in about 25 minutes.

• Pantry-friendly: Uses affordable staples like canned tuna, eggs, and cheese.

• Flexible cooking methods: Bake for a hands-off approach, pan-fry for crispier edges, or air fry for a lighter crunch.

• Freezer and meal-prep friendly: Make a double batch and store extras for lunch or snacks.

• Customizable: Add heat, herbs, veggies, or swap cheeses to suit your taste.

• Kid-approved: Even tuna skeptics tend to love these, thanks to the melty cheese and golden exterior.

Whether you serve them solo, with a dip, over greens, or tucked into a sandwich, Tuna Melt Patties are a versatile addition to your rotation.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what makes these patties flavorful, melty, and perfectly crisp:

 Canned Tuna

• Types: Solid white albacore or chunk light tuna both work, but solid white gives a meatier bite.

• Packed in water vs. oil: Water-packed is leaner and drier (ideal for firmer patties), while oil-packed adds richness and flavor.

• Drain it well! Too much moisture = soggy patties.

• Health tip: Choose skipjack or light tuna if you’re concerned about mercury.

 Cheese

• Best options: Sharp cheddar (classic), Swiss (nutty), or mozzarella (extra gooey).

• Block vs. pre-shredded: Shred your own for the best melt and no additives.

• Tip: Stronger cheeses like smoked gouda or pepper jack add tons of flavor.

 Binders

• Egg: Helps everything hold together.

• Breadcrumbs: Use panko for crispness or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.

• Mayo: Adds moisture and richness.

 Flavor Boosters

• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.

• Green onions or chives: Mild oniony freshness.

• Parsley or dill: Brightens the overall flavor.

• Garlic powder & lemon zest: Subtle depth and zing.

 Optional Add-ins

• Chopped pickles or capers: For briny punch.

• Minced celery: Crunch and freshness.

• Crushed red pepper or hot sauce: Heat.

• Sun-dried tomatoes or olives: Mediterranean twist.

Pro Tip: Use high-quality tuna for maximum flavor—skip overly mushy varieties for the best texture.

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy tools to make these patties—just basic kitchen gear:

• Mixing bowl: To combine all ingredients.

• Fork or potato masher: For flaking the tuna and mixing.

• Cheese grater: If shredding cheese from a block (recommended).

• Spatula: For flipping patties gently.

• Frying pan, baking sheet, or air fryer: Choose your preferred cooking method.

• Measuring spoons + cup or ice cream scoop: For evenly-sized patties.

Optional:

• Cooling rack: If baking, place patties on a rack over a sheet pan for crispier bottoms.

How to Make Tuna Melt Patties – Step-by-Step

Follow this simple process for melty, golden patties every time:

1. Drain and Flake the Tuna

Open and drain your canned tuna thoroughly. Use a fork to break it up in a mixing bowl.

2. Mix Ingredients

Add shredded cheese, egg, mayo (if using), breadcrumbs, mustard, aromatics, and seasonings. Stir well until fully combined. The mixture should hold together but not be too wet.

3. Shape the Patties

Scoop about ¼ cup of mixture and form into patties. You should get 6–8, depending on size. Use damp hands to prevent sticking.

Pro Tip: Chill patties in the fridge for 15–30 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better during cooking.

4. Cook

• Pan-fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden and heated through.

• Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Air fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping once.

5. Optional Cheese Top

For extra melty magic, add a sprinkle of cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover to melt.

6. Let Rest

Allow patties to rest for a few minutes before serving—they’ll firm up slightly and be easier to handle

Easy Variations to Try

Tuna Melt Patties are super versatile. Here are fun twists to match your mood, diet, or pantry:

 Cheese Swaps

• Spicy: Pepper Jack or smoked gouda.

• Creamy: Mix in cream cheese or ricotta for extra richness.

• Tangy: Try crumbled feta or goat cheese with lemon zest.

 Seasoning Twists

• Mediterranean: Add sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and chopped olives.

• Asian-inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce, grated ginger, and sesame seeds.

• Spicy: Stir in chipotle powder or minced jalapeños.

 Veggie Boost

• Finely grate zucchini or carrots (squeeze out excess water).

• Add chopped spinach, red bell pepper, or corn for sweetness.

 Gluten-Free & Low-Carb

• Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.

• Double-check tuna and seasoning mixes for hidden gluten.

Pro Tip: Don’t overload with wet ingredients or your patties won’t hold well. Stick to ~1 cup of mix-ins max.

Expert Tips for Perfect Patties

Make your patties crisp on the outside, cheesy inside, and sturdy enough to flip with ease:

• Drain tuna thoroughly: Squeeze out all excess liquid to avoid soggy patties.

• Chill before cooking: Just 15–30 minutes firms up the mix and improves shape retention.

• Preheat your pan or air fryer: A hot surface gives you that golden crust.

• Flip gently: Use a wide spatula and flip only once to prevent breakage.

• Use a binder ratio: For every 5–6 oz of tuna, you’ll need 1 egg and 2–3 tbsp breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Pro Hack: Add a little shredded zucchini (squeezed dry) for moisture + bulk without extra fat or carbs.

Serving Ideas

Tuna Melt Patties are endlessly adaptable. Serve them hot or cold with:

 Light Meals

• Over mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette

• On toasted buns or English muffins (classic sandwich style)

• With a side of roasted veggies or a simple cucumber salad

 Breakfast or Brunch

• Topped with a fried egg and avocado slices

• On an open-faced bagel with tomato and arugula

 Dips & Sauces

• Garlic aioli

• Sriracha mayo

• Greek yogurt + dill sauce

• Tzatziki or ranch

These also make a great meal prep component—just add a grain and veggie side for a balanced lunchbox.

Storage & Reheating Tips

 Store

• Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Place parchment between patties to avoid sticking.

 Reheat

• Air fryer: 375°F for 4–5 minutes.

• Skillet: Reheat gently with a lid and splash of water.

• Oven: Bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through.

 Avoid microwaving: it softens the crispy crust and can make them rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes! Substitute with 1 tbsp mayo + 1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia mixed with water.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Absolutely. Just cook and flake it beforehand—about 1½ cups cooked flaked tuna equals two 5-oz cans.

How do I prevent them from falling apart?

Drain tuna well, use a proper binder (egg + crumbs), and chill before cooking. Don’t skip that step!

Are these good cold?

Surprisingly, yes! Great for on-the-go lunches or packed picnics.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Definitely. Just freeze extras before or after cooking. Great for batch prep.

Calories (Per Patty – Approximate)

• Calories: 160

• Protein: 17g

• Fat: 9g

• Carbs: 4g

• Fiber: 0.5g

• Sugar: 0.3g

Values vary depending on brand of ingredients and type of cheese/breadcrumbs used.